Friday, August 31, 2018

My thoughts: The Sado lantern is such a great product. Designed for outdoor use - think - hiking, camping, overnights, fishing, boy scouts, girl scouts, outdoors men. But it is so much more.

The light has three levels of white light in soft, medium, and bright. It can be a "beam" or it can be a "lamp." Then there is an emergency light in red. This, too, has three levels of brightness. And finally it has an "orange" or mosquito repelling light. Here in my home state of North Carolina we have mosquitoes that range from tiny and pesky to tiny and dreadful. So that mosquito repellent light is a real plus. You can use it at home in the house in case some got in through an open door or if you want to sit outdoors in the cool of the evening, you can deflect some mosquitoes with this repellent lantern.

A special plus of this lantern is the SOS feature. For anyone venturing out in the woods, seaside, ocean, lakes, mountains whether with someone or alone, they NEED the ability to project a distress signal. This SOS lantern feature does just that. To activate the SOS you simply use two quick taps of the on/off button.

The lithium battery can be recharged using a USB cable to connect to your recharging unit just like you would recharge your phone or other devices.

This lantern can be used as a flashlight though one with a smaller diameter would be handier. This is designed primarily as one that can be hung from a rope or branch to light an area or stood on end. It has a "hook" on the bottom that unfastens so you can clip it to the outside of a backpack or whatever.

I think it is designed really well and has sturdy construction. I am quite pleased with this Sado Tech Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern.

Sadotech Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern can charge your smartphone and other devices via a USB cable. It is super compact and lightweight being 110mm high and 70m wide. It fits neatly in a backpack, on a wheel well, and most kitchen drawers.

MULTI-FUNCTIONAL - The Sadotech Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern can be used is a torch and an SOS lamp with a long lighting time of up to 20 hours. 3 brightness modes – weak, medium, strong -- can be controlled using 1 button. Unlike other camping lanterns in its class, it also has anti-mosquito and power bank functions.

EASY TO CARRY AND USEFUL EVEN INDOORS - The built is extremely lightweight shockproof. It can be hung on safety ropes or bags when climbing and backpacking. It is also convenient for home use especially during power outages, Halloween, and night time events.

DISCLOSURE: This is a #sponsored #review for which I received a complimentary or highly discounted product to facilitate the review. Opinions are my own and are given without coercion for a positive review.

Wednesday, August 29, 2018

My thoughts: Summer of 2017 saw the launch of the children's series "The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls" which is Biblically based and highly readable for kids ages 6 to 9. Now Book #4 in the series "Journey to Jericho" is out and ready for great reading fun.

Written in a type of escapism the stories still capture the essence of the Biblical time and place and the actual persons and activities of the story being told. In "Jericho" we venture forth with siblings Peter and Mary in a bit of "time travel."

First of all, this is a far-fetched and fun story that places a modern pair of kids smack into a Biblical event thousands of years ago. They don't enter this realm as kids of that time and place; no, they enter as spies that help Joshua (remember the Ram's horn was blown 7 times before the walls of Jericho fell). They converse with Joshua. They have the help of the Angel Michael. They fight an evil man in black identified as Satan.

So you may have to help you child understand that while the Bible event did happen and did happen very much as it is written into this story, there was no Peter or Mary (or cute Hank, their dog) present to help matters along.

They are hidden by Rahab when she hides the spies from Jericho men coming to look for spies. Of course, Rahab really did hide the spies, this book just includes Peter and Mary in the adventure.

The reading is good and very age appropriate. It is an adventure with really eye catching illustrations sprinkled throughout. A cute book. I would advise parents, though, to be sure they help their child understand the difference between this one and the actual Biblical account. At the end of the book, there is a nice listing of where in the Bible to find the specific events. This is a real help.

About the book: “In Journey to Jericho, Peter, Mary, and Hank travel to the ancient desert—just as the Israelites are about to enter the Promised Land. The time travelers join a secret spy mission to Jericho, help sneak Rahab to safety, and face the scheming Man in Black. Can they solve the secret of the scroll before the city walls begin to crumble?”About the series: The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls series follows siblings Peter and Mary and their dog, Hank, as they discover ancient scrolls that transport them back to exciting moments in Bible history.

GIVEAWAY

Begins August 30

Ends September 10 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to Continental USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of this book to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine alone and are freely given. Publisher: WorthyKids/Ideals

An Old Order Mennonite couple's vows and beliefs are challenged in this stirring contemporary novel for fans of Cindy Woodsmall or Shelley Shepherd Gray.

My thoughts: Reading Ms. Sawyer's story woven around members of an Old Order Mennonite community helps this reader grasp some of the similarities and differences between this Old Order group and Old Order Amish. Anthony Hirschler is the male protagonist and owns a construction company. He drives a truck, has a cell phone, etc. Marty, his wife also drives and has a phone. They dress in a manner similar to the Amish (ladies cover their hair, have simple dresses, and aprons). They stand out in secular communities as being set apart yet not as set apart as their Old Order Amish counterparts.

The Old Order Mennonites in this story still defer to the local community's religious order for making decisions in life and business.

Now the story..... I found Marty's pouty disposition and standoffishness irritating and personally felt she should let go of her feeling so unhappy and unfulfilled because she and her husband were unable to have children of their own. She seemed self-centered in this attitude and unfeeling in regard to her husband's feelings.

What I related to in the story..... Marty's best friend during her growing up years was Brooke who has become a very successful business woman out in the secular world. She is a worldly woman with no family. Then cancer strikes and she needs Marty's help.

The description of Brooke's battle with cancer and the treatments really hit home to me. Several years ago my husband had cancer with all its ugly effects and happenings - surgery, chemo treatments, radiation, sickness, and a tiredness and weariness that only those who are brought low with chemo can know. My daughter also had cancer and these awful times. So it was hard to read this story that carried Brooke's story and her battle.

The story ends on a high note - and the story ends on a low note. Just as in life their are the high moments and there are the low moments. The story of redemption is alive and well in Ours For A Seasonn and the characters who need redemption so much. The thread of abuse and homelessness and the need to address these issues is a major part of the story.

This is a good read that can have one experience a roller coaster of emotions during the reading.About the book: Anthony and Marty Hirschler are part of an Old Order Mennonite community in Pine Hill, Indiana. The couple has grown apart since a doctor confirmed they would never have children. Marty longs to escape the tight-knit area where large families are valued, and the opportunity to do so arises when her childhood friend, Brooke Spalding, resurfaces with the wild idea of rebuilding a ghost town into a resort community. Brooke hires Anthony to help with the construction, drawing the Hirschlers away from Indiana and into her plan, and then finds herself diagnosed with cancer. Moral complications with Brooke's vision for a casino as part of the resort and the discovery of a runaway teenager hiding on the property open up a world neither the Hirschlers nor Brooke had considered before. Will they be able to overcome their challenges and differences to help the ones among them hurting the most?

DISCLOSURE: As part of the Ours For A Season launch team I received a complimentary Advanced Reader's Copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own alone and are freely given.

Sunday, August 26, 2018

Using a backlit computer keyboard spoiled me for being able to work in a darkened environment. My newer laptop doesn't have the backlit keyboard so I need to be in a lighted area. This reading light is a problem solver for me.

I can clip it to the side of my computer screen (being careful not to engage the screen area) or I can place it on the tabletop or desktop where it will shed its light as I need it.

The little lamp comes charged and ready to use. But when you need to, you can recharge it by inserting the USB connection into your computer (or recharge unit).

This is quite the nice little accessory to have handy. Kids will love having a little lamp to read in bed with. Currently it is priced under $10 on Amazon

As a book light

Product information from Amazon

7 Led Bulbs, 2 Warm Brightness Settings: This book light releases 4000K eye-caring warm light which does not flicker and cause eyestrain after a long time reading . Low setting with 4 LEDs is ideal as a night light using without disturbing your bedmate while high bright setting with all 7 LEDs on is suitable for reading and working

2 Hours Quick Charging and USB Interface Design: The book lamp built in 1000mah rechargeable battery can provide longer than 24 hours usage in low setting and 10-12 hours for high setting. Quick charge and energy-saving design make it hassle-free in charging; Powered by USB charger, plug and play, notebook PC USB, Mobile phone adapter, cigarette lighter with USB cable.

Easy to Use With Clip Base Or Stand: The reading light comes with a clamp holder which can be opened at 1.4 inch and placed on your desk or fixed at the edge when you want to read. The clamp is small that can save your space

DISCLOSURE: This is a #sponsored post/review in that I received a highly discounted for free product to facilitate the review. Opinions are my own and are given without requirement to post a positive review.

Saturday, August 25, 2018

My thoughts: It is back to school time and that is always a good time to read books to the young ones about how to cope with the first day of school, getting along with others, making friends, and all sorts of adjustment issues.

In the case of Eppie the Elephant she has a major problem. She is allergic to peanuts. Not only is she sensitive to them, she has a major issue. So how are her new classmates and her teacher going to react to his problem? Laugh? Understand?

NAMES NOTE: I think it is really cute that the elephant's name is "Eppie" - hint, hint, she needs an "epipen." And of course, the alligator is named "Allie" and the squirrel's name is "Pearl".

So, just how does the news of her allergy get handled? As with many school's method of handling nut sensitivity, there is a nut free zone. Some schools prohibit bringing peanuts or peanut butter products into the school because of the widespread allergy problem.

Eppie makes new friends as the day begins and then at lunch the teacher separates them placing Eppie in the nut free zone. She feels deserted (and sorry for herself) throughout the remainder of the day and dreads going to school the next morning.

The book is written in rhyming prose and it is a cute story with meaning and social ramifications. The illustrations are really cute. I felt the cadence a bit awkward at times but still quite readable.

A charming book that most certainly has a well earned place on school library shelves.

Silver Dolphin also has a Reading Guide for EPPIE THE ELEPHANT. Check it out

About the book: Go on a school-time adventure with Eppie, the elephant who is allergic to peanuts!

It’s the first day of school for Eppie the elephant, and she’s a bit nervous about one thing: that her new classmates won’t understand her allergy to nuts. Like many kids today, this fun-loving elephant can’t partake in peanuts, pecans, or pistachios and has to be careful about what she eats. Eppie makes fast friends with Allie the alligator and Pearl the squirrel, but when Eppie’s allergy is explained at lunch, will her friends still stand by her side? Readers of all ages will relate to this heartwarming, lyrical story of understanding and acceptance.

GIVEAWAY

Begins August 26

Ends September 17 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from MMPublicity on behalf of the publisher to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

Friday, August 24, 2018

My thoughts: This is one of those special books that get passed down from child to child or generation to generation. Though it will be used a lot by each child or family, it will be carefully used and treasured.

There is such a wealth of thankfulness beautifully expressed in well composed rhymes that lend themselves to memory or recollection. Rhymes that further the love of literature in its beauty. No, these are not classics, but they are worthy of keeping, loving, treasuring.

The illustrations are, as are all Precious Moments drawings, beautifully charming. The sweetness is just so special.

Now about the thanksgiving prayers in this little padded cover board book. They begin with being thankful for the "new day." Then the pages are filled with thanks for others' love, sounds, food, songs, weather, laughter, autumn leaves, etc. I like that things to be thankful are addressed in this delightful book that normally are not mentioned in a young child's book.

I heartily recommend this as a special book to gift to that young child you love. What better time to gift it than as Fall breaks forth and Thanksgiving time nears.

Serve the Lord with joy. Come before him with singing. Psalm 100:2

Thank you, God, for Songs.

Singing

Of speckled eggs the birdie sings

And nests among the trees;

The sailor sings of ropes and things

In ships upon the seas.

The children sing in far Japan;

The children sing in Spain;

The organ with the organman

Is singing in the rain.

—Robert Louis Stevenson

Silly Song

I love to sing a silly song.

I love to sing it all day long.

And if you like my song, feel free

To sing the song along with me!

About the book: It happens every autumn. As soon as the leaves begin to turn bright, beautiful colors, the year sprints ahead on fast-forward! Take a few moments out of the hustle and bustle of the season to sink into a cozy chair with your little one and thank God for everything He’s given us with Precious Moments® Little Book of Thanks.

In the sweet, enduring art style of Precious Moments, this timeless book will help your children recognize all the wonderful things God has given them! Read along, and you will remember to enjoy the simple things, like singing silly songs, jumping in a pile of leaves, and watching the seasons change. The short, rhyming verses in this classic Precious Moments book don’t take much time to read at all, and they will create memories that last forever.

Precious Moments Little Book of Thanks offers you the chance to be thankful for all that you have and for the ones with whom you get to share every precious moment.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the BookLook Reviewers Group on behalf of Thomas Nelson Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone and are freely given.

Wednesday, August 22, 2018

My thoughts: Birds hold a tremendous amount of fascination to me and to many others throughout the world. The variety of birds is mind boggling. Their beauty is stunning. Their habits and life patterns fascinating.

Books about birds from all parts of the World are treasures. Treasures because they brings bits and pieces of this beauty to our homes and we can sit and enjoy at our leisure.

Magnificent Birdsis written is a simple, flowing text that is easily understood by the upper elementary grade level child. The amount of factual information is terse and to the point and without complexity. This makes for enjoyable, yet educational, reading.
The book is produced in collaboration with the British Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.

The illustrations are made with an art form that is a bit stark. Colors are somewhat dense and on some pages appear dull to this reader. However, they may depict with a degree of accuracy the colorsphere of the location and birds being presented in the drawings.

I found the book to be highly informative and quite enjoyable. I think it a good addition to public and school libraries as well as the home-school library. "Birders" might enjoy perusing the book, but might prefer a more detailed presentation. The book is beautifully bound and quite sturdy.

About the book: Attractive and informative, this celebration of magnificent birds around the world will set hearts soaring.

From the bird of paradise that performs an extravagant courtship dance in the rain forest to the bar-tailed godwit that flies thousands of miles across the ocean without stopping, readers can learn about incredible birds from all over the world with this strikingly illustrated gift book. In stylish linocut prints, Narisa Togo captures the beauty of both rare and familiar winged creatures from every part of the globe, presenting Japanese cranes, kakapos from New Zealand, and Andean flamingos among the fourteen graceful birds on display.

HINT: Currently Candlewick has a 25% discount on their website. I don't know how long it will be active. Use CANDLEWICK to get the discount.

GIVEAWAY

Begins August 23

Ends September 14 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA and CANADA addresses

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Candlewick Press to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine alone and are freely given. Winner's copy is provided by and shipped directly to the winner by Candlewick.

Tuesday, August 21, 2018

About the Series: Each fascinating book in this series explores the life of a Bible character and draws curious kids into a different time and place as they learn about dozens of key people who were part of God’s kingdom.

My thoughts on the series: These little books are like an exciting and fun romp through Sunday School or Vacation Bible School on STEROIDS. Such a powerful amount of information and lessons to be learned from these Bible heroes is in these little books.

Designed for the age 8-12 child, they can be read to younger children as well. The illustrations peppered throughout the book and the "early chapter book" design are suitable for the age group.

And there is a website and newsletter (sign up with your email, Moms and Dads supervise) for fun and exciting games and activities.
I heartily recommend the series. Now let's look specifically at two of the books and then you can enter the giveaway to win all six books in the series for some child you love.

Kingdom Files: Who Was David? (Kingdom Files) by Matt Koceich

Journey along with David in a field of sheep, in the presence of a towering giant, in the very center of God’s amazing power!

This biblically accurate story of David, created just for the kids in your life, explores the life of this shepherd boy turned king, while drawing 8- to 12-year-olds into a fascinating time and place as they learn about this faithful harp player and courageous giant slayer. Featuring three key sections—a Fact File, an Action File, and a Power File—kids will enjoying learning about the life of David while coming to understand that an ancient Bible story really does apply to their lives today. Dozens of captivating line art pieces add depth and interest to every chapter.

My thoughts: We all love David and especially his slaying Goliath with 5 small stones and a slingshot. Matt Koceich tells the entire story of David from young boy to King of Israel. He tells this story in such a way that we see David's vision of God being with him through all the times King Saul chased and sought to kill David.

Key to this series is the Power Up where kids can see a relationship between the story of David and the lessons he learned and see how they can also apply to the reader of today.

Kingdom Files: Who Was Esther? (Kingdom Files) by Matt Koceich

ISBN 9781683226291

What do you know about Esther?

Was she:
. . .the beautiful Queen of Persia?
. . .the woman who hid her Jewish heritage from the king?
. . .the courageous one who risked her life to save her people?
. . .all of the above?

Journey along with Esther in a luxurious Persian palace, in the presence of a powerful king, in the very center of God’s amazing power!

This biblically accurate story of Esther, created just for the kids in your life, explores the life of the beautiful Queen of Persia, while drawing 8- to 12-year-olds into a fascinating time and place as they learn about the woman who hid her Jewish heritage from the king and ultimately risked her life to save her people. Featuring three key sections—a Fact File, an Action File, and a Power File—kids will enjoying learning about the life of Esther while coming to understand that an ancient Bible story really does apply to their lives today. Dozens of captivating line art pieces add depth and interest to every chapter.

My thoughts: Esther is such a beloved and strong woman in the Bible and she evokes courageous action that can bring encouragement to young girls and their mothers. She never knew she could be used so beautifully to safe the Jewish people from slaughter. But God used her through her obedience and her courage.

Upon learning of the King's plan to kill the Jews in his land, Esther said to her Uncle Mordecai "...if I perish, I perish." This was her attitude when she planned to go speak to the King on behalf of the Jews.

Such strength! Esther sets a standard for strength and courage that girls can reach for in their own lives.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the two books reviewed from Barbour Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given. Giveaway books are provided directly to the winner by Barbour Publishing.

Saturday, August 18, 2018

My thoughts: Riveting! Takes the mind and emotions to an area we would all love to avoid but know from the news we hear daily that the dreaded social evil of human trafficking exists.

As we see the character and lives of a family of law enforcers brought to the forefront of an intense investigation into a deeply rooted and mysterious case where beautiful young girls in the Columbia, South Carolina area are secreted to areas unknown we discover that they, too, are not untouched where tragedy reigns.

Chloe and her K-9 German Shepherd partner are truly high points in this story. You can literally see and sense Hank the K-9, and reading his exploits really makes you appreciate "mans best friend" and his place in bringing law breakers to justice.

Throughout the book you wonder just who is the devious and evil mind behind all the terror brought into the lives of the young girls who have been abducted. The riveting ending totally stunned me proving that the author, Lynette Eason, is skilled and able to bring an engaging and absorbing read to the book shelves of home and library.About the book: For the past year, Chloe St. John has been working as a K-9 cop with her German shepherd partner, Hank. After being dumped by her fiance for another woman, Chloe has decided that Hank is just about the only male she likes. She's over the whole romance thing and focuses her attention on doing her job. Because a serious case of human trafficking with connections to her missing cousin just landed in her lap.

When US Marshall Blake MacCallum's daughter goes missing, he's ordered to kill the judge he's protecting and tell no one about his daughter's disappearance or she will die. Blake races against the clock to rescue his daughter while Chloe and Hank are asked to be a part of the task force assembled to bring down the traffickers. Chloe finds herself attracted to the silent, suffering man, but thanks to her previous bad judgment, she wonders if she can trust him. And can Blake trust himself around this firecracker of a woman?

Bestselling author Lynette Eason warns readers to buckle in for a fast and furious ride that will have their hearts pumping from the very start.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Revell to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

My thoughts: This is undoubtedly one of the most, if not THE most amazing andd enjoyable children's activity book I've come across. The scope of information, activities, presentation is simply superb.

First of all it is beautifully and creatively illustrated with exciting drawings that are both fun, charming, and (to a degree) accurate. When you first flip through the book, you will see that it has large and very well executed fold out pages for the different habitats and in these sections (each section has color coded borders) there is such a variety of learning and fun activities. Of course, there is sticker fun. But there is so much more. Searches, matching, doodling,

At the very start of the book, you get to complete the owner (explorer) information page and finalize a drawing of yourself. Then you start your wild journey with a plunge into the Rain Forest. Critters are playful and have a tendency to snatch sun glasses or hats and then you have to hunt for the item on the pages of the habitat.

The quality of information and activities is tops. And as is befitting a quality book, it is made of nice sturdy paper.

I simply can't rave enough about this activity book. This would be great to have on hand for rainy days and will make a fabulous birthday or Christmas gift.

About the book: Become an explorer and meet wild animals from all around the world in this action-packed activity book!

Become an explorer and meet wild animals from all around the world in this action-packed activity book. There are seven different habitats to discover, from the rain forest to the polar ice, and a wide variety of activities to complete along the way, including coloring, dot-to-dots, doodles, and mazes—get ready for hours of wild animal fun!

DISCLOSURE: I receive a complimentary copy from MMPublicity on behalf of Silver Dolphin books to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone and are freely given.

Every home, every camper, every outdoors man, ever fisherman needs to have a good flashlight.

In addition having a good flashlight that "lights the way" around in the dark, it is really nice to have it zoom in or zoom out for focused or expanded light source.

Then there is the dreaded occasion when someone finds themselves in distress. What are you going to do? The old stand by is to manually flick the flashlight on then off then on then off and keep repeating the distress signal. But the two emergency modes and be set and you can then operate it hands free. Nice!

Well this Kllarmant T6 5 Mode Flashlight: Ultra bright and Zoomable is perfect for all these needs and more.

The light is especially bright! It is a LED beam. It is zoomable. It has three beam levels - high, medium,and low. And then the strobe is fantastic. And on top of that, it actually has a SOS signal.

And something else to keep in mind, this small yet sturdy, metal flashlight can serve as a defense weapon as well. Not that we want to even think along those lines, but if the situation arises and you have one of these at hand, then you are at least prepared to defend yourself.

To "zoom" you simply slide the head/end of the flashlight to the degree you desire. The green button on the end or bottom of the flashlight is the on/off and mode change button. There is a handy wrist strap attached as well.

All in all, I'd say this is a super light and I highly recommend it. With Christmas just a few months away, one might plan to use this as a superb gift or stocking stuffer.

Superb Bright LED beam and Long Service Time is almost to 50,000 hours, focuses range of 150m to 350m

Pretty and Practical Design, Lotus shape attack top can protect the lens and break glass in emergency, precise numerical control cutting technology

Rhombus skid-proof and waterproof, This Flashlight is perfect for out hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, working on a car

Power By: 1x 18650 3.6v/3.7v OR 3X AAA battery (Battery not included)

DISCLOSURE: I received this product at a highly discounted price to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given. I only recommend products I have used and that I or my family can use. #sponsored #review

My thoughts: What a lovely story! The text and pictures evoke a gentle lesson in loving caring, sharing, togetherness, and respect for work.

Dad takes his son to work with him on Friday evening. The story brings honor and respect to the janitorial job of Dad. Son delights in each moment shared from the motorbike ride to and from the school building to sweeping floors.

Together (Dad doesn't denigrate his young son's ability to be helpful) they begin the organized task of making clean the building.

Illustrated with pictures colored with the darkness and shadows of night, they are not scary or fearsome. They are simply a pictorial essay of love and work shared between a father and son.

This is an absolutely lovely book and I recommend it for libraries everywhere.About the book: When the sun sets, Dad’s job as a school custodian is just beginning. What is it like to work on a Friday night while the rest of the city is asleep? There’s the smell of lilacs in the night air, the dusky highway in the moonlight, and glimpses of shy nighttime animals to make the dark magical. Shooting baskets in the half-lit gym, sweeping the stage with the game on the radio, and reading out loud to his father in the library all help the boy’s time pass quickly. But what makes the night really special is being with Dad. Newbery Medalist Karen Hesse’s quietly powerful story of a boy and his father is tenderly brought to life by G. Brian Karas in this luminous tribute to an enduring, everyday sort of love.

GIVEAWAY

2 winners each 1 copy graciously provided by Candlewick Press and hosted on Chat With Vera

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by Candlewick Press to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone and are freely given. Winners' copies are provided by and shipped directly to winner by Candlewick.

Tuesday, August 14, 2018

My thoughts: This is not a book of instruction, study, or devotion. It is a journal that can be used over a period of three years with your child. Each day's page has a question and you record your child's answer to that specific question for the day. Then one year later, you use the second set of blank lines to record the same child's answer to the same question. You repeat this the third year recording the answer in the third portion of lines.

The volume is hardcover and has very sturdy binding so it will most likely last through daily use for three years. The cover design will appeal to either boys or girls. And a means of personalization of the book is provided via the square in the cover in which a picture of the child may be inserted.

The concept of providing a means to address your child's development of emotional, spiritual, and social thinking is certainly worth trying and the recorded comments for each day's question will certainly be a future treasure.

A plethora of questions is available and they run the gamut from "What game do you like to play?" to "What is your favorite thing God created?". I do not think there are any Scripture verses in the book so the Spiritual aspect of this publication will be the emphasis or application that parents insert on their own as the subject arises. Teachable moments exist and one must always be ready to avail themselves of it.

In multiple child families, this would be a nice family exercise, providing the child/children can all write and express themselves. Each child can have his own book in which they write their own thoughts. Family discussion can be held but for the book to be unique to the individual child, the discussion should state that each opinion is worthy of expression.

For those willing to try a project with their child that would last three years, this is certainly worth pursuing.

About the product/book: A fun, thought-provoking 365-question guided journal and keepsake that sparks daily interaction with your child to create a memory book capturing your child's life, personality, and faith journey.

This interactive prompted journal allows a parent to create a keepsake of three years of their child's life. By answering each of the 365 questions together on the same date each year, readers will get a unique and precious picture into their child's feelings, development, and personality. Some of the questions focus on spirituality and the child's heart, while some are meant to capture their creativity, spirit, and sense of humor. All questions spark conversations and memories that span well beyond the pages of this book.

DISCOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from WaterbrookMultnomah to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

Friday, August 10, 2018

My thoughts: First of all, this is a delightful Story Bible for Toddlers. It is just the right size to hold in their hands, the amount of text that comprises the individual stories is really good. Enough to hold their attention but not enough to cause them to get the "wiggles." The stories will challenge a toddler's thinking and the author/s use vocabulary that doesn't "talk down" to these smart little ones but still is not over their head.

The illustrations are great.

Now you couple a really fine toddler's board book with the app that engages with the book giving images that jump from the page, and characters that speak aloud when the little one touches them, you have the makings for a great story time with the kiddies.

Scan the QR code on the back of the book with device.And download the App then follow instructions.

The augmented image of angles has them "leaping" or moving. Then you can touce the angels and they speak. You can touch the shephers and they, too, speak.

About the book: Padded board book for ages 2 to 5

“This padded Bible storybook takes all of the best qualities of the Planet 316 Story Bible—creative storytelling, humor, augmented reality, and engaging illustrations—and distills them into a format toddlers can enjoy. The Planet 316 Story Bible for Toddlers includes eight classic Bible stories from the Old and New Testaments. Little ones will learn about Noah and the ark, David and Goliath, the birth of Jesus, and more with bite-sized stories crafted for the short attention spans of wiggly toddlers. Families will love this fresh storybook that makes the Bible approachable and enjoyable.”

Note: This YouTube video is basically of the original Planet 316 Story Bible "Augmented Reality." It shows the same benefit of the augmented reality present with the app you download for the Planet 316 Story Bible for TODDLERS.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: PLANET 316 is a team of talented writers and artist who share a love for technology and a desire to make the Bible approachable and engaging for children. They create fun...

GIVEAWAY

Begins August 10

Ends August 21 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to Continental USA addresses only

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from WorthyKids/Ideals to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and freely given. Giveaway copy is provided by WorthyKids/Ideals and will be mailed directly to the winner.

Thursday, August 9, 2018

In a world of me-first and gimme it can sometimes be a daunting task to help your young child learn to be compassionate and to think beyond themselves.

Enter...... Compassion International with Compassion in Jesus' Name

Check out the website of Compassion International for a free E-book for kids that will help you teach them to care, to be compassionate, to share. click here

What's it about?

Goggles of Gratefulness!

In today’s world, it’s easy for children to have a me-centered mentality. Growing up in a society of materialism, marketing, and an overabundance of "stuff", their attention is constantly directed to the newest, the shiniest, and the most popular.

How can we teach our children the all-but-lost art of being grateful?

Let Compassion International help you with this free e-book for children, Goggles of Gratefulness. Based on a true story of a family who visited their Compassion sponsored child in Uganda, Goggles of Gratefulness is a children’s picture book that takes a closer look at what it means to be thankful for what we have and generous with what we share.

Follow the story of Amelia the bird, who learns an important lesson when she leaves her world of affluence to visit relatives who don’t have the same things she has. Like Amelia, your child can learn that people are more important than possessions, and that God can turn our desire to have more into a yearning to give more, do more, and be more for others.

DISCLOSURE: I received the information about this program from FlyByPromotions and was not compensated for posting this information. I may have received a copy of Too Small to Ignore in appreciation for this posting.

Wednesday, August 8, 2018

My thoughts: I do love to dive into a good book that takes me back in time to experience in my mind's eye events complete with imagined sights, sounds, feelings, smells. That is just what Kimberley Woodhouse has done with this short novel about the time just before the American Colonies declared their independence from Britain.

War was brewing. People were not sure who could be trusted and what to say and to whom. It was a fearful time.

Woodhouse deftly weaves towering historical figures such as George Washington and Benjamin Franklin into this tale. She has gracious ladies who hold Bible studies and Bible readings in their home whilst gowned in beautiful silk gowns and sipping tea. She has these same gracious ladies slipping out into the night on errands to carry messages to spies.

It was a dangerous time, but also a glorious time when the American colonists overthrew the tyranny of Britain. This is a short, gentle read with a nice helping of romance thrown into the mix. And it is another opportunity to read about descendants of those who journeyed to America aboard the Mayflower.About the book: Spies Work Together for the Patriot Cause

Faith Jackson is a wealthy widow, friend of George Washington, and staunch supporter of the Patriot cause. Matthew Weber is friends with both Ben Franklin and his son William, who increasingly differ in their political views; and Matthew finds himself privy to information on both sides of the conflict. When a message needs to get to a spy among the Loyalists, Faith bravely steps up and in turn meets Matthew Weber. Suddenly she believes she could love again. But someone else has his eye on the Faith she portrays in elite social circles. What will Matthew and Faith have to sacrifice for the sake of their fledgling country?

GIVEAWAY

5 winners for 1 copy each

Begins August 3

ENDS August 20 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher to review. Winners' copies for this giveaway are provided and shipped by Barbour Publishing directly to each winner.

Saturday, August 4, 2018

Skincare products containing Retinol have been long touted as preferred sources for preventing the signs of aging that seem to haunt everyone when they look in a mirror. It's true! Retinol as an ingredient does lend itself to the care and keeping of one's skin.

The products Purlev Pure Touch Anti-Aging Retinol Cream and Purlev Skincare Pure Silk Anti Aging Face Serum can each be used day/night but it is best to not use both during the same application. When both products are used, it is suggested using the serum in the morning under a lighter moisturizer, and the cream at night on cleansed skin.

Purlev Pure Touch Anti-Aging Retinol Cream

My thoughts: This lovely cream is a dense, white cream that I lightly apply to my entire face, neck, and décolletage areas. After dabbing, or patting, the cream over the areas, I begin to massage it into the skin using gently rotating upward motions enabling the cream and retinol to be fully absorbed by the skin and awakening the tissue to work with the ingredients. Purlev is absorbed into the skin beautifully and doesn't leave a sticky feel. (I don't care for products that leave a sticky feel to my skin.) Once fully absorbed there should be not show any "white" of the cream, only softened skin.

For a few minutes after applying this cream, I tend to feel a slight stinging which indicates to me that the ingredients are doing their work. My skin is not sensitive and this slight stinging is very short lived. There is no peeling or lasting redness when I am using Purlev.

After using Purlev for a week, my skin feels softened, pores diminished, skin brightened, and I really believe my "lines" a bit diminshed. Makeup looks especially good now that I've been using this lovely cream on my face. I believe that continued use will help protect it from further effects of aging. The goal is to reduce lines and wrinkles and I think it is helping!

I am using the Purlev Retinol Anti-Aging Cream at night just prior to bedtime. As with any products that contain retinol, or that are not made specifically for use around the eye area, I do avoid getting this product around the eyes.

EASY TO USE – WORKS FAST: Being extremely easy to use, this anti aging facial cream has a thick consistency and plush feel on the skin. Apply with gentle and upward strokes all over your face, forehead, cheeks, neck and décolletage. Combine with our majestic serum for faster results. Nourish and hydrate your skin all day long.

SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: Using a combination of high quality ingredients and natural extracts, our age defying face cream will never let you down. It contains no additives, no chemicals and no masking fragrances. 100% safe for all. For women and men of all ages. Great for those with a truly sensitive or acne prone skin.

ENCOURAGE COLLAGEN PRODUCTION: Help your skin get that lost glow back with a Purlev anti aging Retinol cream by your side. Feel better about yourself again and gain that lost confidence back. Speed up collagen production, constantly hydrate your skin without stripping its natural moisture and get that youthful glow back.

My thoughts: Thisserum is different from the general run of the mill products. First, it is a gel which makes it easier to apply and you feel it is more effective in adhering and absorbing. It contains ingredients other serums do such as Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid but it also has Tri-Peptide. These are the amino acids (or proteins) that our skin needs. And Tri-Peptide means it contains 3 amino acids. Amino acids help our skin know to make more collagen. (see material on this - click here)

I really like using serums on my skin to add a layer of care and protection. I use it after cleansing the skin and prior to applying moisturizer. So the routine is cleanse, serum, moisturize, makeup. Then I'm ready for my day.

I truly like this gel serum as it feels so silky to my skin and I think it is doing a great job protecting against aging.

Using this serum under moisturizer is great for day wear. At night I think the Purlev AntiAging Cream works well.

GET THE SKIN OF YOUR DREAMS: Enjoy silky soft and super plump skin, just like the one you used to dream about. No more dull looking skin. No more imperfections. No more expression lines making their appearance. Cherish a youthful looking and bright skin again. Make everyone wonder.

GLORIFY YOUR FACE & HYDRATE YOUR SKIN: Is your face looking a little bit meh? No more worries! Drench with this fast acting Purlev anti aging serum and find your peace of mind again. Bring back the lost brightness. Restore the pH balance of your skin and enjoy a luminous and radiant face from now! You deserve it after all.

ERGONOMIC & COMPACT BOTTLE: Our age defying pure silk serum comes in a wonderful and practical 1 Oz (30ml) airless pump bottle for accurate dosage. It is compact and fits anywhere you want. Your makeup bag, travel bag, suitcase and even your tote bag. Freshen up even on the go and make all eyes stare at you.

DISCLOSURE: I received these products at little or no cost and may have been compensated for this review. Opinions are my own and a positive review is not required. I only recommend products that I can use or that a member of my family can safely use.

Thursday, August 2, 2018

My thoughts: Headlamps have many purposes from lighting up your field of vision as you perform a repair job around the house or on your car to spelunking through the dark and tight spaces of a cave. Recently, an oral surgeon used a headlamp to light his surgical field which surprised me a bit. Campers use headlamps as they work around their campsite and this frees their hands so they can work better than by use of a kerosene lantern.

Upon opening the very nice storage case (semi-hard cover with zipper closure and hang tag for attaching to gear) you can see that this headlamp has a flexible "cloth" strap ensemble for fitting onto one's head. The lamp center front has a couple settings for illumination and a flashing mode. The back of the headlamp structure has a red light with is great when with others so they can see where you are ahead of them. It isn't necessarily a good option or needed when singularly used, but the availability can provide safety in groups.Having not used it for a prolonged period of time, I can't vouch for the battery life but the batteries are rechargeable and there is a great recharger which can be used in standard electrical outlets.Every member of a hiking, camping, spelunking group should have a headlamp and this flashing light mode can be activated should an emergency arise.

【 IPX4 Water-resistant for Outdoor Use】Camping headlamp is rated as IPX4 grade to protect against spray water in any direction. on the inside, there's high-quality, leakage-resistant, waterproof wiring, there to make sure your led headlights stay on while raining .

【90º Adjustable& Zoomable Head】Help you to see anything clear ahead by pivoting the head down 90º to avoid the pavement cracks,obstacles; You can zoom in/out to change the focus from broad illumination to a narrow long range beam.

DISCLOSURE: #sponsored #review meaning I received this product discounted to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and are not influenced by provider to render a positive review.

Wednesday, August 1, 2018

My thoughts: Sometimes it is difficult to get little boys to break away from their stash of toy cars and trucks to sit still for a book. But when the book is all about trucks, moving dirt, touching and feeling then the transition from actively playing to quietly reading begins. Start reading with them when they are small with a board book like Big Trucks: Touch-and-Feel where they can see the big trucks in action on the pages, touch the gritty dirt (no, the grit doesn't come off), feel the rubbery tires, and see a reflection in the "glass" windows.

The story is about the trucks moving dirt and stuff around and the variety of trucks is great. It is also about doing their "work" and working together to get the job done. A great opportunity to begin teaching the concept of work and cooperation.

Thomas Nelson Publishing is a Christian publishing house. While this little book isn't heavily religious, it does end the day with "God bless . . . Good night to each of you." A big "thumbs up" for this book. A delight for boys but definitely suitable for either boys or girls. (After all, in our house, the boys and girls shared ALL the toys.)About the book: Big Trucks: A Touch-and-Feel Book is a fun way to encourage little children to learn about trucks in a hands-on tactile way. This fun board book includes a different touch-and-feel element on every spread. Children will love feeling the gritty dirt on a construction site and the smooth steel bars the crane lifts. Big Trucks empowers kids to help one another through the story of construction machinery working together to complete a day's work.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the BookLook Review Program on behalf of the publisher to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

FOLLOW by EMAIL uses FEEDBURNER (not for messages)

Contact Vera Form (do not use to "subscribe")

Followers-Stay in touch with Vera (via reader's list)

"Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life." John 5:24

__________________________"Courage is fear that has said it's prayers."(pg. 129 A Wedding for Julia by Vannetta Chapman)

You can never learn that Christ is all you need, until Christ is all you have ~Corrie Ten Boom

"God has a very unique way of scooping up the shattered fragments of our hopes and dreams and molding them into a plan of His own - a plan vastly different from ours, but far more wonderful."--Anita Dittman, Holocaust survivor

Man has a madness to misuse that which his mind has manufactured.--Vera G.

A mountain top view is always the more appreciated after you climb out of a dark valley.--Vera G.

To achieve great things, two things are needed: a plan, and not quite enough time.— Leonard Bernstein

Some of the people who have impacted me have been as ships that pass in the night. A brief encounter that none-the-less leaves a wake that lifts and floats you and somehow impacts you. Friends are not always forever. They are sometimes like ships in the night – passing briefly and casting a radiance on our being.--Vera

As each new chapter unfolds, we look at past days with wishful sighs longing for the sweetness of them. But each new dawn brings exciting adventures for the growing child to embrace as an adult and for the parent to embrace as one who has launched a wonderful ship on the sea of life.

When play is the work of children and imagination the fuel of discovery, the longings of a child's heart become fantastically real to them enabling them to engage in a world of wonder.

USEFUL LINKS

Total Pageviews

Affliliate Associations

I have Google Adsense ads posted and click-throughs may generate a minute amount of income for Chat With Vera. I appreciate your use of the Adsense system. Products I receive are usually complimentary to facilitate reviews. Occasionally, I pay a portion of the price of a product reviewed. Rarely, I receive compensation to review a product. You can trust Chat With Vera's opinions to be given honestly and without bias.